Main hardware components of a computer

A computer is a programmable machine that was introduced as a tool to facilitate mathematical calculations many decades ago. Today it has become one of the most essential devices that you find in every office and in almost every house. It is now an important source to gain and share knowledge and information from and to all the parts of the world.

Modern computers are electronic and digital; they are more advanced and are being upgraded frequently. Many new versions of the operating systems are constantly being introduced for better applications and better functions for the users. They are always more advanced forms of the earlier versions.

The general components of all the computers are almost the same. The main characteristic of a computer is that it can respond to certain specific sets of instructions in a very well defined manner. The computer can execute all the prerecorded instructions. External devices like the frame and panel, wires, transistors, and the circuits are the parts of the hardware, and the data, instructions, programs, etc. of the computer are known as its software.

A computer is nothing but a machine that manipulates the data according to the type of instructions given to it. Technology has become so much advanced that a simple computer can now be fitted to a wrist watch and can function with the help of the watch battery. The capacity to store and execute the list of instructions and functions that are known as programs makes the computer more versatile and extremely distinguished.

Any type of numerical or data based problem can be solved within a second with the help of a computer. All the computers, in general, require the same hardware components: the memory storage devices, input device, output device, and the Central Processing Unit (CPU). The entire package of the hardware components enables the computer to work efficiently.

The software can be obtained according to your requirements. Computers are generally differentiated by their size and power. The most important feature that distinguishes the computer from other machines is that it can be programmed according to your use and need.

Let us discuss the application of computer from a business and organization point of view. Many multinational companies have been benefited with the help of the computer. In many companies they use two central processing units to create a multipurpose configuration so that the computer can divide the work load.

The computer can be made more useful by adding many other external devices such as the printer, fax machine, speakers, etc. With the help of the internet connection you can get access to the latest information and the events that are going on all over the world. All the latest updates and information appear on the screen of your monitor with a single click.

A computer can be a very intimidating piece of equipment for someone who is unfamiliar with how one works. So many pieces of equipment, so many buttons and very little instruction on which piece of hardware goes where and why.

The most popular hardware components of a computer

Keyboard – The keyboard is hooked up to the computer and displays all the letters of the alphabet as well as numbers, grammatical characters and a variety of functions. The keyboard is used to convey controls and functions to the computer.

Mouse – A mouse is a hand-operated device that controls the functionality of a cursor on your computer monitor. It generally has two or three buttons which are used to execute functions on your computer screen.

Monitor – Your computer monitor is a device that displays signals on a computer screen. You can use your monitor to watch DVDs, play games, create documents or surf the web.

Printer – A printer is often hooked up to your computer so you can print a hard copy of your document(s)

Modem – A modem is a component of your computer which converts signals produced by one type of device into a form which is compatible with another. Ex: a computer and a telephone.

Webcam – A webcam is a device hooked up to your computer which allows you to visually communicate with others who also have a webcam installed.

Power Supply – A power supply unit (PSU) is a device which supplies the power to your computer to keep it running.

These are just a few of the hardware components associated with computers. You should also research other devices like computer cases, video cards, computer cables and scanners to become familiar with all of the elements of a computer.

Don’t be intimidated when trying to hook up or fix a computer for the first time. There are plenty of resources online that will help you make sure everything gets done properly. Just do your research beforehand and everything will work out in the end.